AIDS-related stigma as a barrier to HIV and AIDS prevention, care and treatment in South African public universities

Abstract

This study set out to describe the prevalence and nature of AIDS-related stigma in selected South African public universities. The study adopted a qualitative approach by conducting in-depth interviews with its target population. The data was analysed using open coding, where dominant themes from the discussions were identified. The findings show that stigmatisation of people living with AIDS is a key obstacle to HIV prevention and AIDS care. The HIV and AIDS-related stigma places a major psychosocial burden on patients. Therefore, efforts to reduce this stigma should be an integral part of all HIV and AIDS programmes in tertiary institutions. Policies need to be developed to support individuals living with HIV and AIDS and research needs to be conducted to find innovative solutions to health problems.